In the midst of Nigeria’s rising economic turmoil, outspoken social media critic VeryDarkMan has stirred controversy once again — this time, calling out Afrobeats icons Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid for showing off their latest luxury car acquisitions worth billions of nair
The backlash erupted shortly after Burna Boy took delivery of a brand-new McLaren Senna, reportedly worth ₦3.5 billion, making him the first African to own the model. Hot on his heels, fellow superstar Davido allegedly purchased the 2026 Mercedes Maybach SL 680 for a staggering ₦1.2 billion, just months after Wizkid reportedly bought a ₦1.7 billion ride.
Taking to his Instagram page, VeryDarkMan — known for his blunt, often controversial takes — criticized the trio’s public display of wealth as “insensitive” and “disconnected from the suffering of average Nigerians.”
“Yesterday I saw the news that Burna Boy bought a ₦3.5 billion car. The same day, Davido got a car worth over ₦1 billion. They’ve been doing this for a while,” VeryDarkMan began in the now-viral video.
“The question I have for Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido: Don’t you people read the room? Don’t you see what’s happening in Nigeria?”
He continued by singling out Davido, with whom he has personal ties, urging the singer to reflect on his contributions to his home state of Osun.
“Na you be my guy. But what can you beat your chest and say you’ve done for the people of Osun State? The last time I saw you there was when your uncle was campaigning to become governor. Since then, what have you built for the youth?”
VeryDarkMan’s criticism comes amid growing public frustration over inflation, fuel scarcity, high unemployment, and currency devaluation that have plunged millions of Nigerians below the poverty line. While celebrities often share their wins online as part of branding and influence culture, the timing of these acquisitions — amid intense national economic pressure — has drawn mixed reactions.
Social media has since exploded with debates over the responsibility of celebrities during economic crises. While some netizens defended the artists’ rights to spend their hard-earned money, others echoed VeryDarkMan’s sentiments, accusing the musicians of performative wealth and societal neglect.
“We’re not saying they shouldn’t enjoy their money,” wrote one Instagram user, “but maybe also show how you’re giving back to the communities that made you.”
Another user posted, “You can’t be showing off cars worth billions while your fans can’t afford transport fare to work. It’s tone-deaf.”
The heated debate has revived a long-standing discussion: Should celebrities be obligated to give back to society, especially in a country like Nigeria where systemic poverty is widespread? For many, the answer is yes — especially when those same celebrities build their empires off fan loyalty and support from economically disadvantaged communities.
Critics say these stars should focus more on philanthropy, youth empowerment, and infrastructure development in their hometowns, rather than flaunting material possessions that highlight inequality.
Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid are yet to officially respond to VeryDarkMan’s remarks. However, their silence has only fueled further speculation and criticism.
In a country where many can barely afford three square meals, the spectacle of multi-billion naira luxury cars is bound to raise eyebrows. While there’s no law against opulence, the question remains: At what point does celebrity luxury become public provocation?
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic instability, the pressure is mounting on public figures — especially those with global influence — to show more empathy and use their platforms for impact, not just indulgence.